James Leckey’s Rallying Comeback

James Leckey, a former Killarney Rally of the Lakes winner, is making a remarkable return to rallying, driven by his newfound love for the sport in Portugal, influenced in part by Kris Meeke.

Leckey’s Rallying Journey

After a hiatus of 25 years, James Leckey, hailing from Northern Ireland, reentered the rallying scene, initially with a rented Ford Fiesta R5. Dissatisfied with his pace in Irish events, he upgraded to a Citroën C3 Rally2, embarking on a more serious rally endeavor.

Portugal Beckons

Encouraged by Kris Meeke, Leckey ventured into Portuguese rallies, drawn by the country’s favorable weather and challenging terrains. His participation in the Portuguese Championship marked a turning point in his rallying career.

From Legacy to Rally2

Transitioning from older rally cars like the Subaru Legacy to the modern Rally2 cars presented Leckey with a learning curve. He appreciated the Rally2 cars’ advanced capabilities while acknowledging the need to adapt his driving style.

Challenges and Triumphs

Despite facing challenges, including a crash during Rally Portugal, Leckey’s determination and resilience shone through as he persevered with overnight repairs and completed the event. His humor and enthusiasm reflected his love for rallying, even in the face of setbacks.

Future Prospects

Leckey’s Portuguese rallying experience has reignited his passion for the sport, with plans to explore more events, including the Madeira rally. His journey showcases the enduring spirit of rally enthusiasts and the thrill of conquering new challenges.